Abbott releases 2008 Global Citizenship Report

The global health care company Abbott has released its 2008 Global Citizenship Report, entitled "Advancing Innovation". Abbott has produced annual citizenship reports since 2000, and continues to refine its approach to corporate responsibility and reporting. For its 2008 report, the company identified four priority areas that provide a strategic framework for reporting progress and results:

Innovating for the Future – Abbott's primary citizenship impact is advancing medical innovation. In 2008, the company secured nine new product approvals, including medical products, nutritionals and pharmaceuticals.

Enhancing Access – Abbott and the company's philanthropic foundation, the Abbott Fund, reported more than $460 million in grants and product donations, with the majority of this support focused on expanding access to medicine and health care.

Protecting Patients and Consumers – Maintaining the quality and safety of its products is central to Abbott's business, including its work with more than 20,000 suppliers around the world.

Safeguarding the Environment – Abbott's sustainability initiatives focus on addressing climate change, conserving water and limiting the impact of its products on the environment. Key 2008 results include reducing carbon dioxide emissions and water use by 15 per cent, normalized for sales.